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The bathroom is a place that you can escape to for a bit of relaxation, pampering and "me" time. Sadly, it is often the smallest room in the home and can end up as a cramped space stuffed with the necessary furnishings and storage -- not very relaxing. With the proper attention given to the layout and by taking advantage of clever space-saving furniture and storage, however, even the smallest bathroom can become a stylish and relaxing space.

Floor Plan

Creating a detailed, scale floor plan allows you to experiment with the layout and also to visualize how the finished bathroom will look. Begin by adding the door and window to your plan, as these are immovable features. Also be sure to mark where the light switches and any electrical outlets are positioned. Create a list of your requirements; such as bath, sink, toilet, towel rail and cupboards. Next, you can begin to add these into the floor plan and continue to play around with the layout.

Bathtub or Shower

If the small bathroom you are designing is not the main bathroom but a guest or secondary bathroom, consider a shower instead of a bathtub. This takes up significantly less floor space than a bathtub. A shower, however, does not allow you to soak for hours in the same way as a bathtub. If this is your main or only bathroom and you want a bathtub, investigate space-saving solutions such as a corner or half-size tub. Again, play around with different options on your floor plan and remember to allow for clearance so you can move about the room and towel off.

Storage

Bathroom storage is essential in a small room because the more items you have on display -- crammed onto the windowsill and the edge of the tub -- the more cluttered the room will look. Avoid a pedestal sink and instead choose a corner basin that attaches to the wall -- allowing room to position a corner cupboard underneath. Corner furniture makes use of what is usually wasted space, so look for a corner shelving unit or cabinet to take advantage of the space above the corner toilet, with its triangular-shaped tank. Swap the radiator for a heated towel rail to create more wall space, and create recessed areas in the walls rather than hanging standard cabinets.

Decor

The decor is an important part of the design process in any room, but even more so in a small room as incorrect decor can make the room appear even smaller. Choose light, visually receding colors; light blues and greens, white and light neutral tones. When it comes to tiles, opt for a glazed finish, as the reflective surface bounces light around the room. Also consider a larger tile, as small tiles can make a wall appear cluttered. Avoid intricate patterns and elaborate details, and instead try to keep it simple. This does not mean it has to be boring, however. Add a splash of bright color in the towels or accessories such as a soap dispenser or toothbrush holder.

About the Author

Based in England, Tami Mason writes for Local.com and various other websites. Mason has worked as a proofreader and copy editor since 2007 and is a trained interior designer who also specializes in art history, art and crafts.